Air Quality

We chose low- or zero-VOC emitting stains, paints, adhesives and sealants throughout the building to protect our employees’ health and ensure quality indoor air. VOCs are “volatile organic compounds” that can have harmful effects and are commonly found in paint solvents, adhesives and formaldehyde. The composite wood products used in the building, such as particleboard and plywood, were specially chosen to avoid the use of formaldehyde-emitting glues and protect indoor air quality.

Stained concrete floors were selected because they offer several advantages. The concrete flooring avoids the use of carpeting, which can harbor dust mites, mold and other allergens that reduce indoor air quality. Stained floors also avoid the need for harmful adhesives used with carpet, linoleum or other floor coverings. Only our elevator includes a small piece of carpet, and this is Green Label Certified carpeting, which means there is no off-gassing of environmental pollutants.

Lush, green plants fill the planter boxes lining the first-floor hallway and help create a beautiful environment while further protecting indoor air quality. We contract with a cleaning service that uses only non-toxic cleaning products in our building.

Carbon dioxide sensors in open spaces provide information for the computerized control system to automatically adjust the amount of fresh air delivered based on activity in the building. This saves energy by ventilating only when it is needed and improves air quality by ensuring that fresh air needs are always met. The ventilation system provides fresh air to all the office working spaces, while removing stale air at the same time to provide superior indoor air quality. In our warehouse, employees move products using electric forklifts to avoid the use of propane-fueled forklifts and protect the air quality.

Climate Control System

With its large open space and ample windows, the warehouse uses natural ventilation for its fresh air needs.

A networked control system orchestrates the building’s heating, cooling and fresh air ventilation systems. The system is programmed to provide the best comfort at the lowest energy consumption. Office spaces include operable windows so employees can have fresh air and natural cooling. Green and red indicators on “nurse’s station lights” let employees know when windows may be opened or closed. The ventilation system provides fresh air to all the office working spaces, while removing stale air at the same time to provide superior indoor air quality. Carbon dioxide sensors in open spaces provide information for the computerized control system to automatically adjust the amount of fresh air delivered based on activity in the building. This saves energy by ventilating only when it is needed and improves air quality by ensuring that fresh air needs are always met.

Health and Fitness

The third floor of our new building features an endless swimming pool and fitness room for the health and enjoyment of our employees. The pond in front of our building provides scenic views and recreational opportunities. In the future we plan to build recreation paths around our building and through Hinesburg for employees and the community to enjoy. A well-equipped double kitchen off a beautiful café and commons area gives our employees a comfortable area to store and prepare their food. The café and commons area also features a 3-story fireplace to create a warm and inviting place for employees to gather and share ideas.